TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Indonesian Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration, and Correctional Affairs Yusril Ihza Mahendra has criticized a proposal to reward citizens for capturing thieves and motorcycle robbers, warning that it could encourage people to take the law into their own hands.
The proposal was introduced by West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi, who offered a reward of Rp10 million for residents who help capture motorcycle robbers and street criminals.
"I am concerned that it may encourage people to take the law into their own hands," Yusril said on Thursday, July 23, 2026.
Concerns Over Vigilante Actions
Yusril said the reward scheme could potentially trigger acts of vigilantism, especially amid difficult economic conditions.
"With a promise of Rp5 million or Rp10 million, someone could be tempted to grab a machete," he said.
He emphasized that members of the public can report crimes or assist police officers in apprehending suspects. However, he warned that citizen involvement could escalate into mob violence or lynching.
"People may end up punishing the perpetrators themselves," Yusril said.
Dedi Mulyadi Defends Reward Policy
Dedi Mulyadi said the reward was introduced to encourage public participation in maintaining security.
"This is designed to trigger people," Dedi said, as quoted by Antara.
He claimed the policy includes strict conditions to prevent abuse. Residents eligible for the reward must hand over suspects to authorities in a physically unharmed condition.
Dedi said the reward would be canceled if residents were found to have carried out a mob attack against the suspects.
"They should not be handed over in a battered condition. A few scratches are acceptable, but if they are beaten badly, we will not give the reward," he said.
Dedi claimed the policy had already increased public involvement in security efforts, citing more active community patrols following the announcement.
"Proof of this is from just last night, now the patrols have become busier," he said.
Police Allow Public Intervention Under Conditions
Previously, West Java Police Chief Inspector General Pipit Rismanto also issued instructions allowing residents to take action against motorcycle robbers, while emphasizing that such actions must remain controlled.
"With the condition that it remains firm and measured. It should not lead to fatal consequences," West Java Police spokesperson Grand Commissioner Hendra Rochmawan said.
The debate comes amid growing concerns over street crime and public security in West Java, with authorities balancing the need for community involvement against the risks of unlawful punishment.
Hammam Izzuddin contributed to the writing of this article.
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